Yes, there is much hype surrounding artificial intelligence. While much of that hype is unfounded, there are still excellent uses for AI in SMBs. Let’s look at how to identify use cases that can significantly improve business operations.
Use Case Identification
While there are many flavors of AI, the latest wave of excitement focuses on a subset called Generative AI—this will be the article’s focus. Generative AI technologies are best used when text, audio, or visual content needs to be created or understood. Within your business, identify human processes that are low-value uses of time and are at least semi-prescriptive (the more prescriptive, the better).
For example, many SMBs rely on inbound calls or intake forms to collect relevant information from prospective customers. These conversations are typically prescriptive and often hold less value compared to other tasks. A generative AI model could handle these requests by collecting relevant information and entering it into a CRM. This is a simple, albeit powerful, example.
Software Selection
Now that you have identified a use case, the next crucial step is to find the right software. Below is an ever-growing list of AI tools for SMBs and searchers focused on solving high-value use cases. It’s important to do your due diligence on your software before purchase. Appearing on the list below does not endorse any company or product.
Backland Labs offers a text-based contact center that dynamically engages leads, automatically books service calls, upsells service, among other features. Author is affiliated with this company.
Bluon’s AI offering - Master Mechanic gives practical and easy to understand answers for techs. Like having a mentor with 50 years field experience in your pocket.
Cohesive is a data enrichment tool that enables AI enrichment, contact validation, and web scraping from within Google Sheets. Initially built for the searcher community.
Virtual ridealongs give you recordings, transcriptions, summaries, and analytics from every sales visit. Review them, make comments, create highlights, and more.